Transitioning to Electrical Engineering: Your Career Guide

Electrical engineers are in high demand because they can enhance the technologies and infrastructure that power modern life. As more employers look for qualified engineers, technicians are well-positioned to grow into these roles. Electrical engineering jobs require special skills and knowledge, and technicians often already have relevant training and experience.

However, many technicians have to complete structured education programs and upskilling before they can move up in the industry. This post will help you understand the potential requirements, career paths, and benefits of making the switch from technician to electrical engineer.

Why Technicians Make Great Electrical Engineers

Upskilling in electrical engineering is a natural choice for many technicians because their background is well-aligned with engineering responsibilities. Electrical technicians install, maintain, and repair the systems and equipment that electrical engineers design. As a result, they have hands-on experience and a solid foundation in the technical skills they'll need in their future careers.

Technicians who are already working in engineering also have insights into the field, which gives them a smoother path into roles focused on design, analysis, and planning. Compared to prospective engineers from other industries, technicians generally have a clearer understanding of the requirements and responsibilities of the job.

Steps to Transition Into Electrical Engineering Roles

Your path to become an electrical engineer will depend on your academic and professional background. However, many technicians chart a similar course because employers often have the same basic hiring requirements.

Education

Obtaining a bachelor's degree is essential when moving from a technician role to an engineering position. An electrical engineering program provides you with advanced knowledge about core subjects. For example, the electrical engineering curriculum at Bradley University covers subjects such as physics, electronics, calculus, and digital systems.

Higher education is a core requirement but finding time to complete a college program as a working professional can be challenging. Online engineering programs are designed for working adults, offering flexible, asynchronous coursework that fits around your job and personal schedule. You also don't have to be present on campus for most classes, allowing you to earn your degree from whatever location is easiest for you.

Certifications and Licensure

Depending on your goals, you may choose to earn licensure, which is often required for public-facing or consulting roles. The licensure process generally involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and gaining work experience under the supervision of a licensed PE.¹

Certifications are another valuable way to strengthen your resume and demonstrate technical competency during your transition. The most popular certification programs include AutoCAD, Engineer in Training, and Certified Technical Professional (CTP).² Employers sometimes list additional certifications they hope to see when evaluating job candidates.

Skills to Focus on During the Transition

Core electrical competencies are among the most crucial skills to develop as you move from technician to engineer. These are industry-specific skills, including circuit design, power systems, and automation.

Proficiency with industry software—for simulation, schematic design, and data analysis—is equally critical. In addition, this role often demands expertise in programming and industrial control systems.

Soft skills are also vital when becoming an electrical engineer. For example, to successfully collaborate with teams, maintain schedules, and supervise other employees, you'll need to develop your communication, project management, and leadership skills.

Long-Term Career Benefits

If you currently work as a technician, transitioning into engineering can unlock a wider range of career opportunities. It can also help you focus on a special area of interest in the field, take on new responsibilities, and potentially earn higher pay.

Expanded Opportunities

Electrical engineers work in some of the world's most important and rapidly evolving technologies. For example, they design and optimize collection and storage systems for use with renewable energy sources.

Smart systems are another focus for many electrical engineers. They design smart homes and smart cities, which leverage technology to improve energy efficiency, automation, and urban living standards.

Electrical engineers also play a critical part in repairing, upgrading, and replacing power systems, optimizing them for more efficient and reliable energy use. Large portions of the power grid in the United States are aging, having been in place for more than 50 years.³ As a result, the work of electrical engineers is central to keeping the lights—and all the other electrical devices people use every day—up and running.

Electrical Engineering Career Pathways

A potential salary increase is one of the biggest motivators for technicians seeking to transition into engineering roles. The average salary for an electrical engineer in the United States in 2025 is $111,091.⁴ This is significantly higher than the average pay for electrical technicians, who make around $62,600 per year.⁵

These are the average salaries for other electrical engineering roles:

• Circuit design engineer: $110,795⁶
• Electrical controls engineer: $93,961⁷
• Power systems engineer: $117,702⁸
• Project engineer: $90,644⁹

Most employers prioritize candidates with degrees from ABET-accredited programs, which ensure readiness for the profession. During the accreditation process, the school demonstrates the quality of its program and how it prepares students to perform well in their careers.

Make the Move to Electrical Engineering With Bradley University

Some people are reluctant to transition from technician to engineer because they don't currently have the necessary skills and credentials. However, it's an achievable goal for most technicians if you have the right support, education, and planning. Whether you've worked as a technician for a year or a decade, at Bradley University, you can earn the degree you need for a rewarding engineering career.

Ready to supercharge your training and become an engineer? Explore Bradley University's B.S. in Electrical Engineering program, designed to support technicians transitioning into engineering roles. Check out the program overview to see how you can enhance your existing skills, gain new knowledge, and prepare for the next phase of your professional journey.